Let's defeat breast cancer

October is the perfect time to spread awareness

Lee Wissmiller

In the Ozarks, folks like to use plain common sense to deal with issues - as we note in this regular editorial feature on "common sense" solutions.

The American Cancer Society estimates that one in 36 women will die from breast cancer, but those numbers are improving. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there are plenty of ways to participate in and around Springfield, including a walk and lighting ceremony at Mercy Hospital, starting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday. With awareness, funding and research, breast cancer can be defeated, so why not do something about it? It's just common sense.

There are thousands of people living in Springfield who have some type of disability. But those people also contribute in many ways, especially if they are able to access buildings, businesses, schools and other facilities. Lee Wissmiller recently brought to the attention of the City Council some of the impediments to that access. Council must listen and take those concerns seriously. We want everyone to take advantage of what our city offers, and we want the city to benefit from everyone who lives and visits here. It's just common sense.

Politics can be tricky. We would all like to think that our elected representatives in Jefferson City and Washington are doing what is best for the state and country, without regard for political points or maneuvering. Some are doing just that. But, for the most part, it's all about the politics. Missouri House Speaker Tim Jones, R-Eureka, has used a political cudgel to try to keep his caucus in line, while Senate leader Ron Richard, R-Joplin, put himself on the line to protect his caucus. Next time, let's elect representatives who are more concerned with the electorate than political strategy. It's just common sense.

Springfield police recently set up a sting to catch people seeking to hire prostitutes in an inner-city neighborhood, near an elementary school. While prostitution may be a major problem there, that area has been the site of numerous crimes, making it a dangerous neighborhood for families and children. The West Central Neighborhood Alliance, local businesses and the school are all working with police to change that. The entire city should take the issue seriously and help authorities clean up crime there and throughout the city. No one should live in a neighborhood plagued by crime. It's just common sense.

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Let's defeat breast cancer

In the Ozarks, folks like to use plain common sense to deal with issues ? as we note in this regular editorial feature on 'common sense' solutions.